Relaxed 11-Day Ireland Road Trip from Killarney to Galway and Kilkenny

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible town of Killarney, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Killarney and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Kick off the day at Muckross Abbey, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,866 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Killarney. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Killarney.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Shire Bar & Cafe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at John M. Reidy, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Courtney's Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Killarney as you soak in the town’s unique vibe.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Ireland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Killarney and beyond. With 1 night left in Killarney, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the region.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ross Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,141 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Killarney, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dingle may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Dingle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium. This aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dingle, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,093 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Killarney.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Killarney.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Connors Traditional Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O'Donoghue Public House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Killarney. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue your lively evening at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Ireland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Ireland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Ennis’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 57 min. Ennis welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ennis Friary. This friary is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ennis, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 540 visitors.

Set your GPS to Ennistimon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ennistimon beckons with new experiences!

Make Ennistymon Cascades one of your first sightseeing stops in Ennistimon. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 384 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cliffs of Moher. This much-appreciated cliff is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 32,664 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Galway. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Ireland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Galway, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider O'Connell's Bar Galway, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zappis Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Galway and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tigh Neachtain after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Crane Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, O'Connor's Famous Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Galway!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Galway, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Latin Quarter. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,096 visitors.

Next, make your way to Spanish Arch. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,753 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Galway City Museum. Hosting 161,558 visitors every year, Galway City Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Galway. This city museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,232 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Port of Galway. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,067 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Merlin Castle. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 250 travelers.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Galway, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at A Púcán, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Skeff Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kai Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Galway tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Galway.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Caribou, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Taaffes Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Monroe's Tavern is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Galway, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Galway will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Make Quadrangle one of your first sightseeing stops in Galway. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 175 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Salmon Weir Bridge. This weir has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 212 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Great Escape Rooms. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,162 previous visitors.

After soaking in Galway’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Menlo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Menlo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Menlo Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Menlo. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 579 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Galway and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Galway offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at The Dáil Bar Galway, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. Beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Quays Bar and Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Galway tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Galway.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tigh Chóilí.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Galway. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Galway!

When you're ready to see some sights, Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland is a great place to start. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,396 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Eyre Square. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,114 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Open The Door Escape Room. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 301 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Merlin Park Woods. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 187 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Ireland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Galway has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at 1520 Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hooked. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Galway and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Galway, and meet locals along the way!

Take the opportunity to see Ladies Beach. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 166 visitors.

Barna Woods is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,089 travelers.

Galway is also the home of Cappagh Park. Around 465 people have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Galway. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Galway that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Galway to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Galway, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Quay Street Kitchen, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ard Bia at Nimmos, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Kings Head Bistro, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Galway. The bars in Galway make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of The Municipal District of Castlecomer. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Kilkenny, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Castlecomer. This car ride takes around 2 hours 18 min.

Make Castlecomer Discovery Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,420 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kilkenny. This car ride takes around 20 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The National Reptile Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,558 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,458 travelers from near and far.

Kilkenny is also the home of Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,148 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Kilkenny in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Begin your culinary exploration in Kilkenny by securing a reservation at Campagne. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Langtons Hotel Kilkenny boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Italian Connection. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kilkenny.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Kilkenny and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Biddy Early´s. Alternatively, go to Tynans Bridge House Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Ryans Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the town of Kilkenny and visit amazing attractions in Ireland that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Ireland.

Journey into the unknown at Kilkenny Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, The Black Abbey is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 596 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Kilkenny is St Canice's Cathedral. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,044 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Kilkenny offers an experience you will remember.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 764 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Inistioge and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 17 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jerpoint Abbey. This abbey is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 658 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kilkenny.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Kilkenny has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Dine in style at Butcher Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Pumphouse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cleere's Bar & Theatre. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kilkenny.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Christy's Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Inistioge can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

On day 10 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Ireland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Ireland.

After soaking in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cahir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Cahir, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Brú Ború Heritage Centre. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 187 reviews.

Continue your journey at Rock of Cashel. This castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,510 travelers from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cahir. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,042 visitors.

Swiss Cottage is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cottage orné has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 604 visitors.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Vee Pass, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 586 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Ireland at Killarney. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Killarney, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Danny Mann Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Du Parc offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Killarney.

As you approach the end of your journey in Ireland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Killarney’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the town’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Ireland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Ireland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Killarney or just grab something light to keep you going.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Killarney and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.